252 Vaishnav Varta 91 - One Sahukar of Mathura

Now the sentiment (bhav) of the story of a banker (sahukar), a sevak of Shri Gusainji, who lived in Mathura, is described.

Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): This is a rajasic devotee. In the divine play (lila), her name is “Manorupa.” Manorupa belongs to the group of Shri Yamunaji. She manifested from “Chhabisinghi,” therefore her emotional form corresponds to that. This soul was born in Mathura in the house of a wealthy banker. That banker also ran a money-changing shop. His son became about twelve years old, and then he was married. After some time, that banker died. Then the son began going to the shop.

But he was a divine soul. Therefore, this concern remained in his mind — “How will I attain Shri Thakurji?” Whoever came to his shop, he would ask them this question. One day, a Mathuriya Chaube came to the shop of this banker. He was a learned pandit. The banker asked him, “You are a great scholar, so please kindly tell me by what means I can attain Shri Thakurji. I have a great longing to meet Shri Thakurji.”

Then the Mathuriya Chaube said, “Listen! Shri Thakurji is attained when one leaves the home and goes into a solitary forest to do devotion. After that, if you want to ask anything, then go to Shri Gokul. There lives Shri Vitthalnathji (Gusainji). Ask him. He is a great scholar, and many people are his sevaks.” Saying this, the Chaube went home.

The next day, the banker came to Shri Gokul. At that time, Shri Gusainji was performing evening Sandhyavandan at Thakurani Ghat. There the banker had darshan of Shri Gusainji. He appeared as a great, divine, radiant being. The banker stood there for a while. Then Shri Gusainji looked toward him and, out of grace, said, “What have you come to ask? Tell me.”

The banker was astonished. He thought, “See! Without my speaking, he has understood my heart. Surely, he is God.” He became firm in this understanding. Then folding both hands, he prayed, “Maharaj! You are God and know my mind. Please take me into your refuge. I have come to your shelter.” Then Shri Gusainji said, “First ask what you have come to ask. After that, I will take you into refuge.”

Then the banker prayed, “Maharaj! For many days I have had this desire — how can Shri Thakurji be attained? I have asked many scholars, but whoever I asked said that Shri Thakurji is attained only by renouncing the world and becoming detached. Maharaj! This is very difficult. In this age, how can one leave wife, wealth, and home? Even identification with the body does not leave. Therefore I have come to ask you.”

Then Shri Gusainji ordered, “You speak the truth. As long as attachment to the body does not leave, renouncing the household becomes an obstacle. Moreover, if someone leaves home without proper understanding, they will fall into bad association and surely become degraded. And Thakur is not attained by any practice. He is attained only by His own grace. Therefore, the duty of the soul is only to perform Bhagavat-seva, by which His grace will come.”

Hearing this, the banker became very pleased. Then he prayed, “Maharaj! Now please quickly take me into refuge and establish me in Bhagavat-seva, so that I may serve.” Then Shri Gusainji ordered him, “First bathe in Shri Yamunaji. Then I will take you into refuge here.” The banker bathed in Shri Yamunaji and returned. Then Shri Gusainji performed his name-initiation (naam-nivedan) and accepted him into refuge. After that, he said, “Come with me to the temple and have darshan of Shri Navneetpriyaji. Then I will establish you in seva.”

The banker went with Shri Gusainji and had divine darshan of Shri Navneetpriyaji. Upon seeing the darshan, he became overwhelmed and exhausted. Afterward, Shri Gusainji completed the ritual and returned to his seat. The banker also came there, offered prostration, and sat. Then Shri Gusainji asked him, “Now what is your wish?” The banker prayed, “Maharaj! Please establish me in Bhagavat-seva and kindly explain the method of seva.”

Then Shri Gusainji, out of grace, gave him a svarup of Lalji (a form of Thakurji). Then he instructed him, “Serve Him with full attention and loving devotion. Know Him as directly present. Just as you take care of your own body — protecting it from cold, heat, hunger, and discomfort — in the same way take care of Him. Whatever you eat or drink, first offer it to Him. Shri Thakurji enjoys the best things, so whatever excellent items you see in the world, use them in His seva first, and then use them for your own work. In this way, other attachments will cease. Then your refuge will become firm. Without firm refuge, His grace does not come. Therefore, while living at home, perform seva according to the proper path. Also, in Mathura there are poor (nishkinchan) Vaishnav men and women, keep their association. They will explain the method of seva to you. Serve in that way, and grace will quickly come upon you.”

After saying this, Shri Gusainji went for his meal. He ordered the banker, “Today take Mahaprasad here.” After finishing his meal, Shri Gusainji came out, and gave him his own leftover leaf-plate (jhoothan). The banker took Mahaprasad. Then the banker took permission and returned to Mathura. After that, he sent his wife to Shri Gokul with a Vaishnav and told her, “Quickly become a sevika of Shri Gusainji, so that we both may perform seva together.” His wife went to Shri Gokul, became a sevika of Shri Gusainji, and returned. Then both husband and wife began performing seva together.

After that, he began associating with the nishkinchan Vaishnavs. Thus his Bhagavad-bhav developed. Then he began performing seasonal offerings (manorath). After that, he would invite all Vaishnavs and hold gatherings. In this way, he performed seva with love. Within a short time, Shri Thakurji began to reveal His grace and presence to him.

Prasang 1 – Mango Offering with Loving Intensity

One day, during the season of mangoes, that banker Vaishnav organized a gathering of all the Vaishnavs of the town. It was a gathering centered on mango juice. In Mathura, there were two nishkinchan Vaishnavs (a man and a woman) who were sevaks of Shri Gusainji. Their rule was that they would only take what had first been offered to their own Thakurji. And when they received an invitation to a Vaishnav gathering, whatever items were present there, they would first offer them to their own Thakurji and then go to the gathering.

Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): This is the dharma of a devoted wife (pativrata) — to take only what the husband has partaken. And to maintain social conduct, one attends Vaishnav gatherings, but whatever items are there should first be offered to one’s own Thakurji at home, and only afterward should Mahaprasad be taken there. This is the tradition of the path. In Pushtimarg, the pativrata dharma is primary. Shri Gusainji, in “Shri Sarvottam Stotra,” refers to Shri Acharyaji as “pativrata-pati,” meaning he is the husband of those who are exclusively devoted. By this it is shown that in Pushtimarg, one who serves Thakurji like a pativrata attains the fortune of a wedded beloved (swamini-like status).

In the lila, these two are “Rati” and “Gati,” companions of Yashodaji. They always remain engaged in the seva of Shri Thakurji in Nandalaya, preparing new offerings. Yashodaji daily gives them Mahaprasad from her own plate, and they take only that and nothing else. They are completely exclusive in devotion. On that day, there was mango juice in the gathering, and all the mangoes had already been taken to the house of that Seth. This Vaishnav went to the market to buy mangoes, but could not find any. He became very distressed. At that very moment, a gardener came into the market carrying a basket of mangoes.

Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): This shows that when there is intense emotional longing (taap-bhav), all desires are fulfilled immediately.

The Vaishnav asked, “Will you give me mangoes worth two paisa?” The gardener replied, “If you take the whole basket, then I will give it.” The Vaishnav said, “How will I take all of them?” The gardener said, “I will take one rupee.” The Vaishnav said, “Where will I get a rupee?” Then he said, “Do not ask for payment for two or four days, I will give it later.”

Saying this, the Vaishnav went to the bank of Shri Yamunaji. There, he washed each mango one by one and mentally offered them (manasi bhog) to Shri Thakurji. Shri Thakurji accepted and partook of all the mangoes right there.

Meanwhile, at the Seth’s house, the offering was being prepared, but only mango juice was made — there were no whole mangoes. So the Seth sent men to the market to bring mangoes. They came to where that Vaishnav was sitting and asked the gardener, “Will you sell mangoes?” The gardener said, “These mangoes have been taken by this Vaishnav.” Then the Vaishnav said to those men, “If you want, you can take them. They are settled for one rupee.” The men said, “Come, we will pay the rupee.” Saying this, they took the mangoes, and the Vaishnav returned home.

At the Seth’s house, the mangoes were prepared nicely and offered to Shri Thakurji. Then Shri Thakurji said to the Seth, “These mangoes have already been offered by that Vaishnav to his Thakurji. Therefore, I will not partake of these as a fresh offering.” Then the Seth called that Vaishnav and asked, “Did you offer these mangoes to your Thakurji?” The Vaishnav replied, “Yes, I did. What could I do? I had no money, so I did it this way.”

Then the Vaishnav gathering sat to take Mahaprasad. One mango each was served to everyone. After that, they began taking Mahaprasad. Then they also took the mango juice from the Seth’s house. After that, they ate the whole mangoes. They tasted extremely divine. Because that Vaishnav, with intense longing and devotion, had offered those mangoes on the bank of Shri Yamunaji, Shri Thakurji had joyfully accepted them there.

Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): The intention of this account is that wherever and in whatever manner a Vaishnav lovingly offers bhog to Shri Thakurji, there Shri Thakurji Himself, through the grace of Shri Acharyaji and Shri Gusainji, directly accepts it. Therefore, whatever best items are available, they should be offered to Shri Thakurji in whatever way possible — this is the established principle.

That Seth and that Vaishnav were such highly graced devotees of Bhagavan that their story cannot be fully described.

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252 Vaishnav Varta 90 - One Kunbi Patel

Now, a sevak of Shri Gusainji, a Kunbi Patel, lived in a small village in Gujarat. The sentiment of his story is described as follows.

Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): These are tamas devotees. In the divine play, her name is ‘Satyavrata’. She manifested from ‘Gunchuda’. Therefore, that is her inner devotional form.

Prasang 1 – Receiving Grace and Initiation

At one time, Shri Gusainji arrived in Gujarat. Then that Kunbi Patel had the darshan of Shri Gusainji. At that time, the Kunbi humbly requested Shri Gusainji, “Maharaj! Please take me into your refuge.” Then, from his lotus mouth, he commanded, “Go and bathe, then come.” The Kunbi Patel bathed and returned. Then he prayed again, “Maharaj! I have bathed, therefore please show grace upon me and give me the Name.” Then Shri Gusainji, out of grace, gave him the Name. The next day, after making him observe a fast, he had him offer his dedication. Then that Kunbi Vaishnav made an offering according to his capacity.

After that, Shri Gusainji himself cooked and offered bhog to Shri Thakurji. When the time of offering passed, he performed achaman and mukhvastra, and then took his meal. After that, he again performed achaman, took betel, and sat upon the cushion and seat. All the attendants and Vaishnavas then took mahaprasad, and that Patel also took it. The moment he received mahaprasad, knowledge of the path arose within him. That path became firmly established in his heart.

After that, Shri Gusainji narrated the discourse of Shri Subodhini ji, which that Kunbi Vaishnav listened to. In this way, Shri Gusainji stayed in that village for several days. Then Shri Gusainji departed for Dwarka and had the darshan of Shri Ranchhodji. He stayed there for some days, then took leave of Shri Ranchhodji and departed. He then reached Gokul and had the darshan of Shri Navneetpriyaji.

Prasang 2 – The Truthful Vaishnav and the Brahmarakshas

Near the village of that Kunbi Patel, there was a large village where there was a great community of Vaishnavas. There, Vaishnav gatherings, discourses, and kirtans were held daily. In that village, there was a Vaishnav leader. This Kunbi used to go to him. This Kunbi Vaishnav would leave his home after performing the evening aarti of Shri Thakurji. After about six gharis of the night, he would reach there. Then he would sit with all the Vaishnavas, remembering Shri Krishna, and listen to the discourse.

When about one and a quarter prahar of the night remained, he would say “Jai Shri Krishna” to all and leave. Then he would return home and perform the seva of Shri Thakurji. In this way, many days passed. Then one Ekadashi came. That night, after completing the seva of Shri Thakurji, he set out. In the darkness, he lost his way, and it was raining. Moving ahead, he reached a pond where there were many trees.

From one tree, a ghost descended and stood blocking his path. The Kunbi Vaishnav asked, “Who are you, standing in this path?” It replied, “I am a ghost. I have been hungry for many days, so I will eat you.” The Kunbi Vaishnav said, “Today I am going for the Ekadashi jagaran. In the morning, I will return by this same path. Then you may peacefully eat me.” The ghost said, “I do not trust you. Why would you come back? Why would you enter the mouth of death?”

The Kunbi replied, “This is my word. In the morning I will come and call you. Then you may eat me peacefully.” The Brahmarakshas said, “Alright, I trust you. But come early in the morning.” Taking this promise, the ghost let him go. The Patel Vaishnav went to the gathering and listened attentively to the discourse and joyfully performed kirtan. He thought within himself, “In the morning, that demon will eat me. Since I have firmly promised, it is certain. Therefore, it is best to take as much of the Lord’s Name as possible.”

Thus, with great joy, he engaged in divine discourse, and the night passed. In the morning, after saying “Jai Shri Krishna” to the Vaishnavas, he returned to the same pond. He came near the demon and called out, “O brother, Brahmarakshas! Come!” He called him five times and said, “Come quickly and eat me.” But the ghost did not respond. Instead, it thought, “Look! He has come to die. He returned from the mouth of death. Truly, he is truthful to his word. He is a devotee of God. He has no fear of death.”

Then it said, “I will not eat such a devotee.” And after having the darshan of the Vaishnav, it turned back. Then the Kunbi again called, “O ghost! Come quickly, for I am getting late for the seva of the Lord.” The ghost said, “Now I will not eat you. You are a Vaishnav, a devotee of God. Your word is true. For the sake of your dharma, you did not fear death. Therefore, I ask you for one thing. Please give it to me.” Saying this, the ghost fell at the feet of the Vaishnav.

Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): Here it is shown that one who has firm refuge in Shri Acharyaji Mahaprabhu, even Time fears him. What then can ghosts do? Therefore, devotees of God always remain fearless. They are supreme among all, and all three worlds bow to them. As Surdas has sung 

(राग बिलावल | Rāga Bilāval)

हरि के जन की अति ठकुराई । महाराज ऋषिराज, महामुनि, देखत रहे लजाई ॥१॥

दृढ़ विश्वास कियो सिंघासन ता पर बैठे भूप। हरि गुन बिमल छन सिर राजत, सोभा परम अनूप ॥२॥

निस्पृह देस कौ राज करे, ताकौ लोक परम उत्साह। काम क्रोध मद लोभ मोह तहां, भये चोर तें साह ॥३॥

बने विवेक विचित्र पोरिया औसर कोऊ न पावे । अर्थ काम तहां रहें दूरि दूरि मोक्ष धर्म सिर नावे ॥४॥

अष्टसिद्धि नवनिधि द्वारें ठाढ़ी, करजोरें उन लीनी। छड़ीदार वैराग्य विनोदी, झटकी बाहर कीनी ॥५॥

हरिपद पंकज प्रेम परम रुचि ताही सों रंग राते । मंत्री ज्ञान औसर नहीं पावत करत बात सकुचाते ॥६॥

माया काल व्यापे नहीं कबहूं जो या रीतै जाने । 'सूरदास' यह नर तन पायो, गुरु प्रसाद पहचाने ॥७॥

The servant of Hari possesses the highest lordliness. Great kings, sages, and exalted saints feel shy upon seeing him. ॥१॥

With firm faith he has made a throne, and upon it sits as a king. The pure virtues of Hari shine upon his head like a crown, and his beauty is incomparable. ॥२॥

He rules a kingdom of detachment, and his people are in supreme joy. There, lust, anger, pride, greed, and delusion, who were once thieves, have become servants. ॥३॥

Discrimination stands as a wondrous gatekeeper, and no improper chance is allowed to enter. There, wealth and desire stay far away, while liberation and righteousness bow their heads. ॥४॥

The eight siddhis and nine treasures stand at his door with folded hands. Detachment, holding a staff, joyfully drives them away at once. ॥५॥

His deep love for the lotus feet of Hari is his supreme delight, and he is fully absorbed in that color. Knowledge, as a minister, finds no opportunity to speak and remains hesitant. ॥६॥

Illusion and time can never affect one who understands this way. Surdas says, having received this human body, he has recognized this through the grace of the Guru. ॥७॥

✿✿✿

Thus, one should understand the nature of a Bhagavadiya Vaishnav in this way. 

Then the Kunbi Vaishnav asked, “What do you want?” The ghost replied, “Give me the fruit of the kirtan you performed today. Then I will be uplifted and freed from the ghostly state.” The Patel Vaishnav said, “I will not give the fruit of kirtan. If you wish to eat, then eat peacefully.” The ghost said, “Then give me half the fruit.” He replied, “I will not give even half.” Then the ghost asked for the fruit of one ghari, but he did not give that either. Then it asked for half a ghari’s fruit, but that too he did not give.

Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): Here a doubt may arise—In the Pushti path, all actions are said to be done without desire. Therefore, there is no desire for fruits here. Then why did this Vaishnav refuse to give the fruit?

It is said that the fruit of kirtan is extremely divine. Through it, one attains Shri Govardhan Nath Himself. Along with His divine play, the Lord resides in the heart. How can such a fruit be given to this demon? Because he is not of divine nature. Therefore, he did not give it. Then the demon said, “O Vaishnav! Then at least give me the merit of five Taal (measure).”

At that very moment, a divine voice came from the sky, “O Vaishnav! You are a devotee of God. Therefore, show compassion and give him the merit of five Taal, so that he may attain liberation. Through your darshan, he has gained this understanding.” Then the Kunbi Vaishnav took water from the pond and placed it in the hands of the demon, saying, “I give you the merit of five Taal.”

As soon as he said this, the demon’s body was released, and he was freed from the ghostly state. Immediately, a celestial viman came from heaven. The demon assumed a beautiful divine form, circumambulated the Vaishnav, fell at his feet, and then boarded the celestial vehicle and went to heaven. Such is the glory of a devotee of God. After that, the Patel returned to his home.

Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): In this story, it is shown that the Kunbi Vaishnav used to travel such a long distance for satsang. Satsang is such a precious thing; therefore, one must associate with devotees of God, so that dharma is never lost. That Kunbi Vaishnav was such a recipient of grace and a true devotee of Shri Gusainji. Therefore, how far can his story even be told?

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252 Vaishnav Varta 89 - One Khandan Sanodhiya Brahmin

Now, the sentiment (bhav) of the story of one sevak of Shri Gusainji, a Khandan Sanodhiya Brahmin, resident of Sinhanand, is described.

Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): These are rajasic devotees. In the divine play, her name is “Kasodari.” She manifested from “Gunchuda,” therefore that is her bhav form.

He was born in a Sanadhya Brahmin family of Sinhanand. When he was five years old, his mother died. After that, his father placed him with a learned pandit for study. He studied a great deal. Then when he became thirty years old, his father died. After that, he lived alone in the house. He was not married. Whenever five people gathered in the village and did discourse or kirtan, he would go there. And he would argue and debate with everyone. Due to the pride of his learning, he would not accept anyone as superior. Whatever anyone said, this Brahmin would refute it. Because of this, people began to call him “Khandan Brahmin.” There were many Vaishnavas in Sinhanand.

Prasang 1 – The Khandan Brahmin Opposes the Vaishnavas

That Khandan Brahmin used to strongly criticize the Vaishnavas. And he stayed near the Vaishnavas. The Vaishnavas would perform confidential kirtan and discourse, sitting in seclusion. Once, the birthday of Shri Gusainji arrived. All the Vaishnavas gathered there and were doing kirtan. That Khandan Brahmin came there after hearing the kirtan. The Vaishnavas were singing kirtans of Shri Acharyaji Mahaprabhuji and Shri Gusainji.

Then that Khandan Brahmin said, “You sing like villagers.” The Vaishnavas replied, “We do not know how to sing like you.” Then the Khandan Brahmin said, “Shall I sing? You sing along with me. I know everything.” Then that Khandan Brahmin began singing of other deities, while the Vaishnavas were singing together of Shri Thakurji. Hearing such kirtan, one Vaishnava became angry.

That Vaishnava said to the Khandan Brahmin, “Who has invited you? Why have you come uninvited into someone else’s house? What do you understand, and what do you know? Therefore, leave from here. Otherwise, I will hold both your hands and remove you, and then you will feel bad.” Then the Khandan Brahmin said, “Is your path different from the world? Does such a thing not exist in the world?” Then the Vaishnava said, “We do not accept Ganesh, Devi, Shiva, or any other deity. All deities are manifestations of Shri Thakurji.”

Then the Khandan Brahmin said, “All are one. Come, let us ask a learned Brahmin. My statement is true.” Then the Vaishnava said, “What do we have to do with learned Brahmins or other deities? We know none other than Nandanandan. Why do you raise your head here? Therefore, leave from here.” Saying this, he held the Khandan Brahmin by the hand and removed him.

Then the Khandan Brahmin went outside, gathered ten or five Brahmins, and began criticizing those Vaishnavas. After that, when all the Vaishnavas were sitting there, he came and began throwing clods at them from above. Then all the Vaishnavas got up and went to their homes, and the kirtan stopped. After that, all the Vaishnavas went to sleep.

When midnight came, four persons arrived, overturned the Khandan Brahmin from his cot, and beat him severely. They struck him so much that the skin and bones of his entire body felt separated. He cried out in great pain and began weeping loudly. He said, “Why are you beating me?” They replied, “Why did you criticize the sevaks of Shri Gusainji? And why did you create an obstruction in kirtan? That is why we are beating you. The Vaishnavas are supremely beloved of the Lord. And Shri Gusainji is directly the complete Purushottam. Therefore, if you speak against Vaishnavas again, we will beat you like this daily.” Saying this, they left.

Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): In this story it is shown that Shri Thakurji cannot tolerate offenses against Bhagavadiya Vaishnavas. And wherever kirtan and discourse of the Lord take place, Shri Thakurji Himself is present. This verse is not found in the Bhagavat, but it is: “I do not reside in Vaikuntha, nor in the hearts of yogis.
Where my devotees sing, O Narad, there I reside.” Therefore, whoever creates obstacles in kirtan or causes pain to Vaishnavas, the Lord Himself instructs them in this way.

After that, the body of that Khandan Brahmin began to suffer greatly. Because of this, he could not sleep and kept turning from side to side. He thought, “When will morning come, and when will I go and pray to those Vaishnavas so that my suffering may end?” In this way, morning came. He slowly got up and went to the Vaishnavas. He fell at their feet and said, “Whatever I spoke to you, I have received the result of that. You are greatly beloved of the Lord, and I am a very fallen sinner.” Saying this, he showed his body and narrated all that had happened in the night and how he was beaten. He said, “There is great pain in my body.”

Seeing the Khandan Brahmin, the Vaishnavas felt great compassion. They brought charanamrit from the house and applied it to his body, and said, “Put it in your mouth. Take the name of Shri Acharyaji and Shri Gusainji.” Then they said, “Now you go home.” The Khandan Brahmin said, “I have no place now. Please show mercy and make me a Vaishnava.” The Vaishnavas said, “This can happen only if Shri Gusainji shows grace. Since such a desire has arisen in your mind, you should go to Shri Gokul. Your wish will be fulfilled.” After that, the Khandan Brahmin took leave from the Vaishnavas and departed. 

After some days, he reached Shri Gokul. There he had darshan of Shri Gusainji. Then he prayed to Shri Gusainji and said, “O Maharajadhiraj! Please give me the Name. You are compassionate to devotees. Why do you consider the offenses of my life?” Hearing his words, Shri Gusainji showed grace and gave him the Name. Then Shri Gusainji instructed him to observe one fast, after which he would be offered initiation. After the fast, on the next day, he was given atmanivedan (self-surrender). Then the Khandan Brahmin offered gifts according to his capacity. After that, he stayed in Shri Gokul for some days and learned all the practices of the path. Shri Gusainji Himself, out of grace, explained everything to him and taught him the scriptures. All the practices of the path became firmly established in his heart. He stayed there for several days and had darshan of Shri Navneetpriyaji and the other seven forms.

One day, Shri Gusainji rose early, completed his daily duties, brushed his teeth, bathed, and had mangala darshan of Shri Navneetpriyaji. Then he decided to go for darshan of Shri Govardhannathji. He took that Brahmin along, and along with all the Vaishnavas, proceeded for darshan. They reached Shri Giriraj at the time of Rajbhog. After the offering, Shri Gusainji gave darshan of Shri Govardhannathji to all the Vaishnavas. The Khandan Brahmin also had darshan and became very pleased. He thought, “Blessed is my fortune that I have received such darshan.” After performing Rajbhog aarti and all services, Shri Gusainji came down from Giriraj, sat on his seat with cushions, and the Brahmin also came down after darshan and offered full prostration.

After that, Shri Gusainji dismissed all the Vaishnavas and instructed that the Khandan Brahmin should take mahaprasad there. Shri Gusainji went for his meal, and after eating, had a plate of mahaprasad served to the Brahmin, who partook of it. After resting for a short while, Shri Gusainji awoke. At the time of utthapan, he bathed and went again to Giriraj, performed utthapan of Shri Govardhannathji, completed all services until shayan, and returned. The Khandan Brahmin continued having darshan in this way for several days. After that, Shri Gusainji returned to Shri Gokul with all the Vaishnavas, and the Brahmin also came along. He had darshan of Shri Navneetpriyaji and took mahaprasad.

Then the Khandan Brahmin prayed, “If permitted, I wish to undertake the pilgrimage of Braj.” Shri Gusainji said, “The Braj pilgrimage should certainly be done.” Then the Brahmin took leave and departed. After completing the entire Braj pilgrimage in some days, he returned to Shri Gokul, had darshan, and stayed for some more days. After that, taking leave from Shri Gusainji, he returned to his home in Sinhanand. There he met the Vaishnavas and narrated all the events. He also told them about the beating, which he had not told Shri Gusainji earlier.

Among those Vaishnavas was a leader. He removed his turban, folded his hands, and fell at the Brahmin’s feet, saying, “Blessed you are. You have spoken the truth. The punishment for the offense came immediately. This is the sign of a divine being. Near such a person, Shri Mahaprabhuji resides. The sign of a demonic person is that the more unrighteous acts they do, the more they prosper.” Thus, that Khandan Brahmin became a good Vaishnava. He lived in the company of all Vaishnavas. Whenever a Vaishnava came to his house, he would humbly host them. He maintained great respect for all Vaishnavas. He performed kirtan according to his understanding, in accordance with the path and with Shri Bhagavat. Whenever any Vaishnava praised him, he would say, “This is your glory. By your grace, this has been accomplished.” He served all Vaishnavas and remained humble before them.

That Khandan Sanodhiya Brahmin became such a greatly graced Bhagavadiya sevak of Shri Gusainji that his story has no end—how much can be described?

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252 Vaishnav Varta 88 - One Kshatriya Vaishnav who received Atma-Nivedan

 Now the sentiment of the Varta of a Kshatriya sevak of Shri Gusainji from the eastern region, to whom he granted Atma-Nivedan, is described.

Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): He is a sattvik devotee. In the divine play her name is Krishnapriya. Within her there is deep affection for Krishna. Therefore everyone calls her Krishnapriya. Her nature is very simple. She manifested from Gunchuda, therefore she is the bhava-form of that.

In the eastern region, about twenty kos from Shri Jagannathrayji, there is a village. There a wealthy Kshatriya was born. From childhood he had great interest in hearing sacred stories and discussions. Wherever such discourse took place, he would go there. And whenever any sadhu or saint came to the village, he would lovingly serve them. When he became eighteen years old, his parents passed away. After that this Kshatriya became even more devoted to serving saints, ascetics, and great souls. If any sadhu or saint came to the village, he would respectfully care for them. If someone had nothing to eat, he would give them food. If someone had no clothes, he would give them clothes. In this way he would serve them. At night he would press the feet of the saints. In this manner he performed service with great devotion and feeling. Because of this his fame spread widely. Hearing his reputation, many people began to come to him.

Once, at midnight, a renunciate came to the door of this Kshatriya. It was the cold season, and the cold was very severe. The renunciate had nothing to cover himself with or to spread beneath him. Therefore he began to shiver from the cold. He knocked at the Kshatriya’s door. But that day the Kshatriya was not at home; he had gone out for some work. The renunciate became disappointed and remained lying at the door. Because of the severe cold his life left him. In the morning the Kshatriya returned home. When he looked, he saw the renunciant lying at the door, and his life had departed. Then the Kshatriya thought within himself, “Look! This poor person must have come to my door after hearing my name. But I was not here, and in the cold he lost his life. This has become a great offense for me. Now what should I do?” In this way the Kshatriya remained very worried.

Prasang 1 – The Kshatriya Receives Atma-Nivedan

Once Shri Gusainji came to the eastern region for the darshan of Shri Jagannathrayji. There that Kshatriya had the darshan of Shri Gusainji. Then the thought arose in his mind, “I will go into his refuge.” That Kshatriya Vaishnav prayed to Shri Gusainji, “Maharajadhiraj! Please show mercy and give me the Name. And please forgive my offense.” Then Shri Gusainji commanded from his lotus mouth, “Go and bathe, then come.” The Kshatriya Vaishnav bathed and returned. Then Shri Gusainji, showing mercy upon him, gave him the Name. The Kshatriya Vaishnav then offered a gift according to his ability. After that Shri Gusainji prepared the kitchen there himself and offered bhog to Shri Thakurji. After the offering was completed, he himself took his meal and had the Brajvasi attendants receive Mahaprasad. He also arranged a leaf-plate for that Kshatriya Vaishnav. The Kshatriya Vaishnav took Mahaprasad and remained there for the night. Later Shri Gusainji went to rest.

In the morning Shri Gusainji departed from there and went for the darshan of Shri Jagannathrayji in the holy place of Purushottam. He remained there for some days and took darshan. After that he took leave of Shri Jagannathrayji and departed. After some days he arrived in Shri Gokul and had the darshan of Shri Navneetpriyaji.

After some time, that Kshatriya Vaishnav also came to Shri Gokul along with other Vaishnavas. He had the darshan of Shri Gusainji and offered full prostrated dandvat. Then all the Vaishnavas had the darshan of Shri Navneetpriyaji. Afterward they came again for the darshan of Shri Gusainji. They offered dandvat and sat down. Shri Gusainji then went for his meal. After finishing his meal he performed achaman for purification of the mouth, chewed the prasadi beera, and afterward sent leaf-plates of Mahaprasad to all the Vaishnavas. All the Vaishnavas received Mahaprasad. After that Shri Gusainji went to rest. After a short rest he awoke before the time of Utthapan and began to speak a discourse. Many Vaishnavas were seated there. That Kshatriya Vaishnav was also sitting in the discourse.

At that time Shri Gusainji began the topic of Atma-Nivedan. He said, “When a soul performs Atma-Nivedan with a pure mind, and the Guru also performs the initiation with a pure mind, then by the grace of Shri Acharyaji Mahaprabhuji a firm refuge is immediately established. Supernatural realization also becomes firm. The gift of the divine pastimes of the Pushti path is received. All the experiences of the path arise, and an alaukik vision manifests.”

Hearing this, the Kshatriya Vaishnav thought in his mind, “If Shri Gusainji shows mercy, then I will perform Atma-Nivedan.” Later, after Utthapan, the service continued until Sen. After taking the mala and beera and offering dandvat at the temple of Shri Navneetpriyaji, Shri Gusainji came outside. Afterward Shri Gusainji finished his meal and sat alone upon the seat with cushions. Then the Kshatriya Vaishnav prayed to Shri Gusainji, “Maharaj! I have one request. You are Shri Prabhuji and capable of doing everything. I am only a soul. Therefore you alone can fulfill my wish.” Shri Gusainji said, “What are you saying? What is your wish? Tell me.” The Vaishnav then prayed, “Maharaj! Please grant me the gift related to the divine pastimes of the Pushti path. Please show mercy and have me perform Atma-Nivedan. Please fulfill my longing.” Then Shri Gusainji called Shri Giridharji and commanded, “Tomorrow perform the Atma-Nivedan of this Kshatriya Vaishnav. In the temple of Shri Navneetpriyaji, in the presence of the bed of Shri Acharyaji Mahaprabhu, grant him the gift of connection to the divine pastimes of the Pushti path.”

Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): Here a doubt may arise: why did Shri Gusainji not personally perform the Atma-Nivedan for that Kshatriya? Why did he instruct Shri Giridharji? And why did he command that the offering be done in the presence of the bed of Shri Acharyaji Mahaprabhu? This does not appear to be the usual method. The explanation is that Shri Gusainji manifested sons according to his own nature. Therefore Shri Raghunathji in the work Namratnakhyastotra refers to Shri Gusainji as “the one who produced sons according to his own form.” Thus Shri Gusainji had the Atma-Nivedan performed through his eldest son Shri Giridharji. Shri Giridharji embodies the form of dharma, and within him the sentiment of separation shines. Therefore by giving the gift of separation he would immediately grant this Kshatriya Vaishnav the experience of the divine pastimes. That is why Shri Gusainji gave this command.

Also, he instructed that the Atma-Nivedan be done in the presence of the bed of Shri Acharyaji. This is because Shri Acharyaji Mahaprabhu himself is the direct form of Swaminiji. Through the form of the sacred sandals he eternally remains near Shri Thakurji. Without the grace of Shri Swaminiji the gift of connection to the divine pastimes cannot be obtained. This matter has been mentioned earlier in the Varta of Krishnabhatt. Therefore Shri Gusainji instructed that the Atma-Nivedan be performed in the presence of the bed. In this way he revealed the sentiment of Swamini. Just as when Shri Navneetpriyaji gave Brahma-Sambandh to Ilammagaruji, then the tulsi was offered at the lotus feet of another form. This sentiment should be understood. This is an extraordinary principle.

The next day Shri Giridharji lovingly performed the Atma-Nivedan for that Vaishnav. Then the Kshatriya Vaishnav came to Shri Gusainji and offered full dandvat. He sat before Shri Gusainji. Shri Gusainji then said, “The gift connected to the divine pastimes of the Pushti path has not yet occurred.” He called Shri Giridharji and asked angrily, “What gift have you given him? The gift related to the divine pastimes of the Pushti path has not yet been granted. Therefore have him perform a vow, and afterward perform the offering again with a pure mind.” Then one vow was performed by that Kshatriya Vaishnav. After that, with a purified mind, the offering was again performed before Shri Acharyaji according to the method of the path. Then the Vaishnav returned to Shri Gusainji and offered full dandvat.

Again Shri Gusainji looked at him and said, “The Atma-Nivedan has still not become pure.” He called Shri Giridharji again and said, “Have this Kshatriya Vaishnav perform another vow. And for the purification of the body, you also perform one fast.”

Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): This was so that Shri Giridharji would also experience the sentiment of separation. 

After that, asking Shri Gusainji, the offering would be performed again. Then that Kshatriya Vaishnav performed another vow, and Shri Giridharji performed a fast. The next day Shri Giridharji and the Kshatriya Vaishnav came before Shri Gusainji and offered dandvat. Shri Gusainji said, “Even now your inner being has not become fully pure.” Then another fast was performed. After that Shri Gusainji instructed Shri Giridharji to perform the Atma-Nivedan again.

Then Shri Giridharji performed the Atma-Nivedan of that Kshatriya Vaishnav in the presence of the bed of Shri Acharyaji. At that very moment both Shri Giridharji and that Kshatriya Vaishnav had the darshan of Shri Thakurji along with the Braj devotees in the divine pastimes of the Pushti path. That day the Kshatriya Vaishnav forgot all awareness of his body. He remained lying there in the assembly and did not even remember to take Mahaprasad. He became completely absorbed in divine bliss. Then Shri Gusainji spoke the Ashtakshar mantra into his ear. Immediately he regained awareness. After that he took Mahaprasad. Then the Kshatriya Vaishnav attained alaukik knowledge and remained forever immersed in the divine nectar of Bhagavan.

Thus that Kshatriya Vaishnav became such a Bhagavadiya and recipient of the grace of Shri Gusainji that the limit of his Varta cannot be reached—how much of it can be spoken?

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252 Vaishnav Varta 87 - Gopaldas Bhitariya Sanchora Brahmin

Now the sevak of Shri Gusainji, Gopaldas Bhitariya, a Sanchora Brahmin, resident of Gujarat—his Varta is spoken with its inner sentiment.

Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): He is a sattvik devotee. In the divine play his name is Sahodari. Previously, in the Dwarka-lila, she was Bimala, a companion there. From that Bimala she manifested, therefore this is her bhava-form. She came to Gopitaleya along with Bhramita. Thus she experienced the Pushti-lila. Therefore she attained the Braj-lila. This matter has been mentioned earlier.

By the will of Bhagavan, Gopaldas manifested in Gujarat in the home of a Sanchora Brahmin. When he became about twenty years old, his parents passed away. Some days after that, Shri Gusainji came to Dwarkaji for the darshan of Shri Ranchhorji. He stayed in the village of Gopaldas. Then all the Vaishnavas of the village came together for the darshan of Shri Gusainji. Gopaldas also came with them. Gopaldas had the darshan of Shri Gusainji. Then Shri Gusainji looked toward Gopaldas and gave the command: “Gopaldas! When will you come to serve Shri Govardhannathji?” Then Gopaldas became astonished. In his mind he thought, “This must be some great person. Otherwise how would he know my name?” Therefore he thought, “If I go into his refuge and make my life successful, that would be good.” Then Gopaldas folded both hands and prayed, “Maharaj! I am in your refuge. Therefore please show mercy and make me your sevak.” Then Shri Gusainji became pleased and had Gopaldas perform the offering of name-initiation. After that Gopaldas prayed, “Maharaj! If you kindly give me service at your lotus feet, it will be good.” Then Shri Gusainji said to Gopaldas, “Gopaldas! You serve Shri Govardhannathji, and also do my personal service.” Then Gopaldas prayed, “Maharaj! That is also my desire. Therefore please consider me your own and keep me near your lotus feet.”

After that Gopaldas went with Shri Gusainji to Dwarkaji. On the way he washed the clothes of Shri Gusainji every day. And by the command of Shri Gusainji he also did the work of assisting in the kitchen. In this way, after some days, Shri Gusainji came from Dwarkaji to Shrinathjidwar. Gopaldas also came with Shri Gusainji to Shrinathjidwar. Then he had the darshan of Shri Govardhannathji.

Prasang 1 – Shri Nathji Asks for Food in the Forest

Gopaldas had a very simple nature. Therefore Shri Gusainji personally gave him the service of the kitchen of Shri Govardhannathji. He began to perform it with great love. Within some days the Lord revealed His affectionate grace to him. Shri Nathji would speak directly with Gopaldas. Shri Gusainji knew all these matters very well, that such grace of Shri Nathji had come upon Gopaldas. Therefore Shri Gusainji would sometimes ask Gopaldas about the conversations of Shri Nathji. Gopaldas would narrate everything clearly before Shri Gusainji.

Once, Shri Gusainji was at Shrinathjidwar. One day, after finishing his meal, Shri Gusainji was sitting in his meeting place chewing a beera. Half of the beera had been eaten, and the other half was still in his hand. At that time Gopaldas came to the meeting place after washing and drying the dhoti. He offered dandvat and prayed to Shri Gusainji, “Maharaj! I was returning after washing the dhoti at Apsara Kund. Shri Nathji was seated toward the side of Poonchhri. Seeing me, Shri Nathji said, ‘We are hungry. Therefore the ingredients for a cool offering have been called there.’”

At that very moment Shri Gusainji bathed and went up the mountain. He prepared all the ingredients, placed them in a large plate, covered it with cloth, placed it upon his shoulder, and walked toward the side of Poonchhri barefoot. Dharmdas the cowherd was coming from there. He met Shri Gusainji on the path and asked, “Maharaj! Where are you going barefoot at this time?” Shri Gusainji replied, “I have heard that Shri Nathji is seated here somewhere. Please show me.” Then Dharmdas pointed from a distance toward the grove of the Dhak tree of Maroli and said that Shri Nathji was seated beneath that tree.

Shri Gusainji went near that Dhak tree. There Shri Nathji was seated with Shri Dauji and the circle of friends, engaged in playful pastimes. Shri Gusainji went and had their darshan. Then he placed the plate of offerings before Shri Nathji for bhog. Shri Nathji, Shri Dauji, and all the friends joyfully accepted the offering. Afterward Shri Nathji commanded Shri Gusainji, “You have become very tired. Therefore now return home. And from today onward, do not accept such messages from anyone, and do not come like this again. Whatever I need, I myself will ask you.” Saying this, Shri Nathji became very pleased with Shri Gusainji. Shri Gusainji then returned home, and Shri Nathji went into the forest to play. In this way Shri Nathji plays in Shri Vrindavan, and Shri Gusainji remains always attentive in the service of Shri Nathji.

Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): In this Varta a doubt may arise. At first Shri Nathji had the message of ingredients conveyed through Gopaldas, yet now he told Shri Gusainji, “From today do not accept such messages from anyone, and do not come like this.” The explanation is this: Shri Nathji had the message about the ingredients conveyed through Gopaldas, but he did not say that Shri Gusainji himself should come. If Shri Gusainji had sent the ingredients through Gopaldas, Shri Nathji would have accepted them. However, Shri Gusainji has deep affection for Shri Nathji. Therefore he personally brought the offering. In this way he manifested the mood of a sevak. In the same way earlier also he had personally offered food at the Shyam Dhak grove. That has been mentioned above in the Varta of Gopinathdas. If Shri Gusainji were to come again and again in this way, it would cause him fatigue, and Shri Nathji could not bear that. Why? Because this is the way of love: if one’s beloved experiences even a little fatigue, it causes great pain. Therefore Shri Nathji restrained Shri Gusainji in this way. This sentiment should be understood.

Thus Gopaldas was such a Bhagavadiya who was the recipient of the special grace of Shri Gusainji. Therefore the extent of his Varta cannot be reached—how much of it can be told?

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252 Vaishnav Varta 86 - One Kshatriya Vaishnav, Chandanwara

Now there was a Kshatriya Vaishnav, a sevak of Shri Gusainji, Chandanwara, who lived in Shri Gokulji. The sentiment of his Varta is being told.

Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): He is a Rajas devotee. In the divine play his name is Bhramita. Previously he was a sakhi of Bimala in the Dwarka-lila. He manifested from Bimala; therefore his devotional form is of that nature.

Once Shri Rukminiji said to Shri Thakurji, “In the way that you played the flute in Vraj, called the Vraj gopis, and performed the Raas with them, in the same way please perform Raas with us also. This is the desire of all of us.” Then Shri Thakurji smiled and gave this reply: “You are all princesses. Therefore the worldly modesty that binds the Vraj gopis will not leave you. And how will you come into the forest at night?” Then Shri Rukminiji said, “We will come. You play the flute in the forest.” After that Shri Rukminiji said to all the chief queens, “All of you remain ready with the complete sixteen adornments. When the sound of the flute is heard, we will all go into the forest. There we will meet the Lord and perform the Raas.”

Then Satyabhama and the other chief queens became pleased. They went to their respective palaces and began to adorn themselves with their own sakhis and companions. After that Shri Thakurji went to Gopitalaiya and played the flute. Hearing it, Shri Rukminiji and all the chief queens, along with their sakhis and companions, came out of their respective palaces fully adorned with the sixteen adornments. They reached the gateway called Singhpori.

There they saw that Vasudevji and all the Yadavas were sitting there. Then all of them thought among themselves, “At this time of night we are leaving our homes dressed in such adornment. If these elders see us, what will they say? And if they ask us, ‘All of you together, adorned with the sixteen adornments, where are you going at this time of night?’ What answer will we give them? Therefore at this time it is certainly not proper to go outside the house.” Thus, out of fear of the elders, all of them returned to their respective palaces.

Shri Thakurji came to know of this. Then he thought, “I have played the flute with the impulse of the Pushti form, and I have resolved to perform the Raas. Yet they have not come. How can my resolve become false? Therefore now I should call the young maidens of Vraj and perform the Raas with them.”

Thinking in this way, Shri Thakurji called the young maidens. At that time Bimala, the sakhi of Shri Rukminiji, and Tanmadhya, the sakhi of Shri Satyabhamaji, also came there secretly along with their own groups. They joined with the young maidens and afterwards experienced the Raas. Among that group was also Bhramita. In this way they experienced the Pushti-lila.

Afterwards they did not return to Dwarka. In separation they left their bodies at that very place. Along with Bhramita there was one sakhi of Bimala named Sahodari. She also left her body in the same manner. After that there were three sakhis of Tanmadhya. Their names were Krishnanuchari, Ratishuri, and Satya. They too, in separation, left their respective bodies. These five sakhis then attained the Vraj-lila. Later the entire group of the divine play manifested upon the earth. At that time they also came. Their Varta will be told ahead. 

And this soul took birth in Agra in the house of a wealthy Kshatriya. That Kshatriya was a sevak of Shri Gusainji. When Shri Gusainji came to Agra, he had his son perform name-initiation before Shri Gusainji. After that the Kshatriya came and lived in Shri Gokul with his family. After a few days he passed away. The son remained in Shri Gokul. He associated with the Vaishnavs and daily listened to sacred discourses and Vartas. His love for Shri Gusainji increased greatly. He remained constantly engaged in the seva of Shri Gusainji.

Prasang 1 – The Vaishnav’s Doubt Removed by the Darshan of Shrinathji

One day during the hot season Shri Gusainji returned from the temple, had taken his meal, and was seated in the meeting place. At midday the Lord would apply sandalwood paste upon his divine body. The Vaishnavs would each bring very fragrant sandal paste from their homes on different days, which the Lord would accept. One day it was the turn of this Vaishnav. He began to offer the sandal paste with his own hands upon the divine body of Shri Gusainji. At that time a thought arose in the mind of that Vaishnav: “All the Vaishnavs say that Shrinathji and Shri Gusainji are one form. Yet he appears here in a human body and gives darshan. How will the doubt of my mind be removed?”

Shri Gusainji understood the thought in his mind. After applying the sandal paste the Vaishnav offered dandvat and started to go home. At that time Shri Gusainji, while reclining, gave him this command: “Vaishnav, fan me for a little while and then go home.” Then that Vaishnav began to fan Shri Gusainji. Shri Gusainji reclined, covering himself with a very thin upper cloth. While the Vaishnav was fanning him, the Lord granted him the direct darshan of Shrinathji within the upper cloth. Then the Vaishnav began to think within his mind, “Is this happening to me like a dream?” He began again and again to rub and blink his eyes and look repeatedly, thinking, “Perhaps this is some illusion for me?”

As long as doubt remained in his mind, Shri Gusainji continued to show him the darshan of Shrinathji. Then he understood, “What all the Vaishnavs were saying is true.” At that very moment the Vaishnav offered dandvat. At that instant firm faith arose in his mind. Then Shri Gusainji sat up. Looking toward this Vaishnav he asked him, “Vaishnav, has the doubt of your mind been removed?” The Vaishnav at once ran forward, offered dandvat, and prayed before the Lord, “Maharaj, by your grace I have now understood your true form. Therefore the doubt in my mind has been removed.”

Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): The intention of this Varta is that a Vaishnav should never have a sense of difference between Shri Gusainji and Shri Govardhannathji. Gopaldas has sung this in Vallabhakhyan in the following verse:

“रूप बेऊ एक ते भिन्न थई विस्तरे विविध लीला करे भजन सार ।”

“Though the two forms appear separate, they are actually one; in expansion they perform various divine plays, which are the essence of devotion.”

✿✿✿

Thus Shri Gusainji and Shri Govardhannathji are one form. However, in order to manifest the relationship of master and sevak, they assume two forms and perform divine play. Therefore a Vaishnav should understand the form of Shri Gusainji as divine and extraordinary. This Vaishnav was such a greatly graced devotee of Shri Gusainji. Therefore the extent of his Varta cannot be reached—how far can it be told?

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